Metals Limited Building

10190 104 Street , Edmonton

Built in 1914 for $40,000 by Zenith Construction, this three-storey brick and concrete structure was designed by architects Magoon and MacDonald.  It was designed for Metals Limited, wholesalers for steamfitter and plumbing supplies in addition to mine and mill products.

A cast stone sign panel proclaiming the company name and date of construction is positioned immediately above the main entrance doors.  A stylized cast stone rose and leaf design is set into the brick wall on either side of the main entrance, symbolizing the provincial flower and the Alberta based headquarters of the firm.

The east building façade displays regular spacing of brick piers, windows and spandrel modulation.  The south and west facades are plain and functional.  The dominant rhythm of the spandrel bays on the north façade is made unique by the placement of punched windows near the east end.  Corbelled brick dentils used with regular brick piers provide distinctive support detail for the projecting cornice line.

Above the cornice, a brick parapet was used for the company’s painted sign advertising.  Faint reminders of the original lettering are still visible.  Because of the original warehouse use, the ceiling heights are generous.  Originally the windows were large, allowing ample natural light, but since have been altered to allow for a lower sill.

Over the years a number of businesses have been located here. The Metals Building represents the type of wholesale premises prevalent at the turn of the twentieth century.

- Edmonton Historical Board

Designation & Awards

Edmonton Historical Board Plaque Award

Municipal Historic Resource (December 17, 2002)

Era: The War Years
Themes: Trade & Industry
Cultural Groups:
Area: Central

Metals Limited Building

Edmonton Historical Board Plaque

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